Mohs Micrographic Surgery

Definition

This procedure is used to remove skin cancer that affects the face and other sensitive areas. The cancer is removed layer by layer. The tissue is examined under a microscope until only healthy tissue remains.

What to Expect

Prior to Procedure

Discuss with your doctor any allergies or medical problems that you have.

Talk to your doctor if you take any medications, herbs, or supplements. You may need to stop taking some medications up to 1 week before the procedure.

Arrange for a ride home and for help at home.

Eat normally the day of the procedure.

Anesthesia

Local anesthesia will be used. You will not feel pain, but you will be awake during the procedure.

Description of Procedure

The area will be cleansed with antiseptic. A local anesthetic will be injected into the area. Using a small scalpel, the top visible portion of the cancer will be removed. Next, another, deeper layer will be removed. The layer will be divided into sections. Each section will be color coded. This will allow the doctor to know exactly where the layer was in the skin.

These sections will be frozen and examined under a microscope for remaining cancer cells. If cancer is found at the edges of the removed layer, the doctor will go back to the precise section. Additional layers will be removed until all areas are cancer free. For larger wound areas, the wound will be closed with stitches, a skin flap, or a
skin graft
procedure. Small, shallow wounds may heal without stitches.

How Long Will It Take?

You will have to wait while the tissue is examined microscopically. In some cases, this procedure can last for several hours.

How Much Will It Hurt?

You should have minimal discomfort during the procedure. There will be some minor pain during recovery. You may be given pain medication.

Post-procedure Care

At the Care Center

During your stay, the hospital staff will take steps to reduce your chance of infection, such as:

Washing their hands

Wearing gloves or masks

Keeping your incisions covered

There are also steps you can take to reduce your chances of infection, such as:

Washing your hands often and reminding visitors and healthcare providers to do the same

Reminding your healthcare providers to wear gloves or masks

Not allowing others to touch your incisions

After the procedure, you may be given pain medication and an antibiotic. You will be able to leave the same day.

At Home

When you return home, do the following to help ensure a smooth recovery:

Be sure to attend any follow-up visits. Your doctor will monitor your condition.

Keep in mind that it is normal for a scar to form. The appearance may improve over time.

Take steps to prevent skin cancer:

Use sunscreens with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30.

Protect your skin from the sun. For example, wear a shirt, wide brimmed hat, and sunglasses.

Regularly check your skin for changes.

Call Your Doctor

After arriving home, contact your doctor if any of the following occur:

Bleeding or other drainage

Increased pain

Redness, warmth, tenderness, or swelling at the incision site

Signs of infection, including fever and chills

If you think you have an emergency, call for emergency medical services right away.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.